EEF urges Blair to stand firm in EU

Manufacturing News, Source : TheManufacturer.com
Published : 22 Nov 2002 14:28
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The Engineering Employers’ Federation (EEF), along with a group of major UK companies and trade bodies, have sent an open letter to the Prime Minister, urging him to stand firm against the proposals at the forthcoming EU Council of Ministers on 3 December.

The federation has warned of the potential damage to the UK' s flexible labour market and competitiveness from the proposals, which will give temporary workers the same rights as permanent employees from day one. While the vote has given the slim possibility that there may be a six week derogation period, this may only be transitional, and is someway short of the twelve month period called for by UK employers and supported by the UK Government.

While the EEF is especially concerned about the impact on all agency workers, it is especially concerned about the effect on higher skilled engineers and technicians, who tend to be highly paid and choose this way or working to suit their lifestyle.

Martin Temple, director general of the EEF said: "Removal of the flexibility which the UK economy enjoys, through the restrictive provisions proposed, would have a devastating impact on the economy' s most advanced manufacturing and technology based companies, for whom this type of employment is vital to their success."

 

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